DAVID Mapp has taken up the baton of musical director at Onchan Silver Band.
He replaces conductor Paul Dunderdale who retired from the role in 2012. Principal baritone Rebecca Halliday was acting band master while the group looked for a permanent replacement.
David’s background is in modern music composition and performance so for him, a brass band is a real novelty.
He said he was ‘delighted’ to take up the position, saying: ‘They’re a wonderful group of players, and they’re so happy to try new ideas and share their talent.
‘We’ve got a load of exciting plans, like incorporating some unfamiliar music into our repertoire, performing in unexpected locations and venues and searching out exciting collaborations with other musicians, composers, dance groups and artists.
‘I feel OSB will really be a brass band with a difference, with a really strong identity and a lot to offer the island’s culture circuit. I can’t wait.’
The band believes it has led the way in areas of brass banding in the island, from setting the record high mark of 97 with an ensemble at the 2011 Manx Music Festival, to updating its look to incorporate modern Manx tartan waistcoats.